our approach

youth development

Rocking the Boat engages over 200 teens per year in a series of STEM-based programs that last throughout their high school careers and into college. Participants enter as freshmen and sophomores and choose from one of three programs: Boatbuilding, Environmental Science, or Sailing. They move from being students to paid apprentices to alumni once they graduate high school, at which point they are eligible to work part-time for Rocking the Boat as Program Assistants.

All participants receive wrap-around social services provided by three licensed social workers. Together they offer participants comprehensive social and emotional support, and help them graduate from high school, apply to college or trade school, overcome obstacles to attaining a college degree or professional certification, and map out a path for reaching their long-term goals.

public programs

On-Water Classroom exposes elementary, middle, and high school students to the joy of rowing and the beauty and ecological diversity of the Bronx River. During the summertime, Bronx River Camp and Sailing Camp introduce middle school students to the activities of rowing and sailing, and allow them to explore their local natural environment.

Community Rowing invites the general public to go for a row on Saturday and Sunday afternoons from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and volunteer projects bring groups of adults up to the Bronx to support Rocking the Boat’s work, and provide outstanding teambuilding opportunities.